Fort McClary Offers Families Loads of History and Fun

For more than 300 years, Fort McClary in Kittery, Point, Maine has protected the shoreline of the Seacoast from its founding in 1689 through World War I before it became a state historic site.

Today it is still serving as a Seacoast region sentinel for Portsmouth area families in need of something fun and affordable to do. Just a short drive across the Piscataqua River in Portsmouth, Fort McClary gives kids the perfect place to climb, run and explore the historic fortifications. There are also plenty of picnic tables that overlook stunning views of the Portsmouth and Kittery harbors.

Whenever my family and I come here, my son usually makes a beeline for the inside of the fort where he enjoys looking out over the water. All of that climbing, running and exploring combined with the salty air is a healthy way for him to expend his energy and learn something about its history at the same time.

Fort McClary is a great place for families to learn about the history of the re gion from Colonial times through the 20th century. Kids and their parents can go inside the main fort building and see how soldiers defended the coastline against threats of invasion. The fort also holds several events during the summer that include historic Revolutionary War and Civil War reenactments and concerts.

Just across Whipple Road from the fort's main entrance is a recreational area that includes new playground equipment and a swimiming area. Dogs are also welcome as long as they are on a leash and dog owners clean up after their pets.

Glen Dochtermann, the park manager, said the Friends of Fort McClary maintain the property as best they can and are always on the look out for ways to enhance it. Just recently, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard donated an 8,000-pound Dolgin cannon that it had on its property to the fort.

Fort McClary is also free and donations to support the maintenance of the property are accepted in drop boxes in the parking area.